I'm moving to Dubai in September, any advice?

Question

I am moving from the UK to Dubai.

Anyone have any advice on where to find work, cheap place to stay, places to avoid, things I should know?

I would mostly like to hear from people who have experience rather than vague opinions.

Answer 1

Where to find work : -  Never try small companies .....pay is low, transportation and other allowances is also low. Always look for MultiNational companies.Most of the big companies are situated in Jabel Ali,Karama,Bur-dubai etc. Make sure that your companies gives you transport facility.

Cheap place to stay:- Rents are very high all over Dubai starting from 45k to 70k per year for one room. Jumeirah , dubai marina have highest rent. U can find cheaper place to stay in Rashidiya,Deira,Bur dubai,karama where rents are not low but reasonable(though comfort level will be low ).

Places to avoid:- Dubai is the safest place to stay. There is no such place to avoid in dubai. I am sure you will love that.

Things you should know would be -

1. (in case you are not Muslim) During Ramadan you are not supposed to eat or drink anything outside(I mean on roads while walking) till evening. Even restaurants are closed till evening 6(don't worry -home delivery or take-away facility is always available).

2.Traffic is really a big problem in dubai (that will be solved soon once metros will be ready - i guess in couple of years). So try to find a home near to your work place till you get driving licence out here which takes at least 5-6 months.

Answer 2

Ok... the big thing you have to worry about is the weather. The climate in Dubai is much more different than the UK..

If you have good degrees you won't have difficulties finding work... just google it.

Cheap places to stay are scarce seeing Dubai is one of the most expensive places in the world.

Places to avoid, well, I wouldn't say much.. just don't wander off in the night to places you don't know or never been in. You will be pinpointed as a foreigner.

Things you should know:

The place is not like other Gulf Countries (more freedom) but not like Lebanon. SO you still have some restrictions. You will find it hard to adjust.

If you're a devout person (supposing you are Christian), you may not be able to fully practice as you did in the UK.

You still have time till September. If you  haven't secured a job, do so for the job might come with everything else you need.

My friend's dad had his job come with a house, medical aid and everything else you wanted. This is a country that has oil, and seeing as prices are going through the roof, they have money to spare.. and probably distribute.

Answer 3

it might be hard to find a cheap place to stay in (but maybe it'll be cheap compared to your country..

anyway abt work it depends on yout qualifications.. i'd suggest any intiti of dubai holdings or nakheel maybe? these are the bigges 2 companies in the reigon, i currently work in knowledge village (goes under dubai holdings) and i love it here

best of luck =)